While most people can recover from the flu at home, some cases become serious quickly. Knowing the emergency warning signs can help you decide when to go to the emergency room for the flu.
Keep reading to learn which flu symptoms need emergency care, when to call a clinician and how to find the right level of care.
If you or someone you’re caring for has severe trouble breathing, chest pain, confusion, a seizure or cannot be awakened, call 911 or visit your nearest emergency room.
When Should You Go to the Emergency Room for the Flu?
Go to the emergency room or call 911 if you have flu symptoms along with any of these signs:
- A chronic health condition that is getting worse
- A fever or cough that improves and then returns or gets worse
- A seizure
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Little or no urination
- Persistent dizziness, confusion or an inability to wake up
- Persistent pain or pressure in your chest or abdomen
- Severe muscle pain
- Severe weakness or unsteadiness
These symptoms can be signs of a serious flu complication, such as pneumonia, severe dehydration or a worsening heart or lung condition. We recommend getting medical care right away for these emergency warning signs.
Flu Emergency Warning Signs in Children
Children can become seriously ill with the flu, especially those younger than 5 years old and those with certain chronic health conditions. Take your child to the emergency room or call 911 for:
- A worsening chronic health condition
- A fever above 104 degrees Fahrenheit that doesn’t improve with fever-reducing medicine
- A fever or cough that improves and then returns or worsens
- A seizure
- Bluish lips or face
- Chest pain
- Fast or difficult breathing
- Not being alert or interacting when awake
- Ribs pulling in with each breath
- Severe muscle pain, such as refusing to walk
- Signs of dehydration, including no urine for 8 hours, a dry mouth or no tears when crying
For babies younger than 12 weeks, any fever needs prompt medical attention. If your child has trouble breathing, isn’t waking up or isn't drinking enough fluids, seek emergency care.
When Is the Flu Serious but Not an Emergency?
Although not every flu symptom requires a visit to the ER, you should contact your primary care physician if:
- You feel very sick or you’re worried about your symptoms
- You have asthma, diabetes, heart disease or another chronic health condition
- You’re 65 or older
- You’re caring for a child younger than 5, especially a child younger than 2
- You’re pregnant
Those at higher risk for serious flu complications may benefit from antiviral treatment. The benefit is greatest when treatment starts early, so call your clinician as soon as possible after symptoms begin.
If your symptoms are mild and improving, rest at home, drink fluids and avoid close contact with others except when seeking medical care. But it’s important that you don’t wait at home if symptoms become severe or concerning. Knowing when you can return to work or school after the flu can be difficult, but we’re here to help guide your decision.
If you’re unsure whether you have the flu, check out our blog to learn the differences between common illnesses.
What Issues Can the Flu Cause?
The flu is a respiratory infection that can range from a mild illness to a severe disease. In some cases, the flu can lead to complications like pneumonia, sinus or ear infections, inflammation of the heart or brain, severe muscle injury and sepsis. It can also worsen chronic conditions such as asthma or heart disease.
Some people have a higher risk of complications, but serious flu illness can happen to anyone. Contact a healthcare professional if you’re very sick, have a high-risk condition or are unsure what level of care you need.
Where to Get Care for the Flu
Call 911 for a life-threatening emergency. For emergency warning signs, go to the nearest emergency room. If you have concerning symptoms without emergency warning signs, call your primary care clinician or an urgent care center to ask about the right next step.
Our infectious disease specialists can help evaluate and treat illnesses caused by infections, including the flu.
